Microsoft’s decision to end Windows 10 updates in mid-October has sparked concern among consumer groups and left many users anxious about having to buy new computers to avoid cyber threats.
Here is what you need to know about the upcoming end of support for Windows 10.
What happens on October 14?
Computers running Microsoft’s 2015 version of Windows 10 will no longer receive updates after October 14. These updates regularly patched the operating system to protect it from frequent cyberattacks, explained Martin Kraemer, a security expert at American firm KnowBe4.
What does this mean for users?
Microsoft has urged customers to upgrade to Windows 11, released in 2021. For those whose hardware is incompatible, the company offers a $30 one-year extension for Windows 10 security updates.
Consumer groups have criticised this move. US watchdog Consumer Reports said, “The lack of backwards compatibility for certain Windows 10 machines sold only a couple of years ago is a blow to consumers’ pocketbooks,” as many face forced upgrades.
In Europe, French group End Planned Obsolescence (HOP) has petitioned for free updates until 2030, while Germany’s Verbraucherzentrale consumer federation warned that the decision “worries consumers and limits free purchase choices.”
They added that increased new computer purchases harm the environment by generating hard-to-recycle electronic waste.
How many users are affected?
Microsoft did not provide figures on how many users cannot upgrade. Consumer Reports estimated 650 million Windows 10 users worldwide in August, while the US group PIRG suggests up to 400 million computers are incompatible with Windows 11.
What are the risks?
Users who cannot upgrade and do not pay for extended support face greater cyberattack risks. Kraemer said, “By receiving no updates, you’re no longer protecting yourself against the most recent cybersecurity risks.”
Though the risk increase is hard to measure individually, Windows 10 users as a group become prime targets. Paddy Harrington of consulting firm Forrester added that unsupported Windows 10 may prevent installation of the latest third-party software. “Application vendors rely on the operating system to provide features and functions,” he explained. Without updates, apps may not work properly.
What options do users have?
Recent antivirus software alone may not fully protect an unsupported operating system. Harrington said, “It’s better than doing nothing, but should only be a temporary fix while finding a permanent solution.”
Users wanting to keep their current hardware might switch to another operating system, such as Linux, an open-source alternative already popular for servers and the foundation for Google’s Android OS.
“As long as your applications, management, and security tools support that OS, it’s a good choice,” Harrington said.
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